Little Spindle

Carrot Orange Soda Cupcakes

2013-07-24T21:54:00.003-04:00

Hey strangers!

I know it's been awhile but I thought I'd share the deliciousness that I'm delighting in right now.

This is another version of the soda pop cupcakes that I've made

I'm telling you, my friends this is the easiest way to make cupcakes (or you could probably do a full sized cake) but don't want them to be 90,000 calories/points.

Yep - I'm back on the bandwagon.

Down 7.4 lbs too.

But I have to have sweets in the house or I'll lose it.

So without further ado...

Carrot Orange Soda Cupcakes

2 WeightWatchers Points

Servings: 18

What You'll Need

Cake Mix - I used Betty Crocker Super Moist Carrot

12 oz. soda - I used Diet Sunkist

Combine the cake mix and the soda.

Blend.

Pour (more neatly than I did) into cupcake liners.

Bake according to the cake mix directions.

Let them cool and then enjoy!

I added a dollop of Cool Whip Free to the top as my "icing", but feel free to add whatever you'd like.

I'm telling you - these.are.awesome!

Make them right away.

Side Note:

While I was making these delightful morsels Jackson was playing sweetly in his exersaucer.

Wrigley was up to no good though...

She tore a big ol' hole in this darling little octopus toy.

The joys of a babe and a puppy in the house!

Next up...Lemon 7UP Cupcakes.

Chocolate Fudge ("Heavenly Hip") Cake

2013-04-18T06:00:00.000-04:00

I haven't posted a recipe in a long time.

That probably has a little something to do with the baby man that takes up the majority of my time.

Anyway, on Saturday while The Hubs was at work (only one more weekend!!!) I put Jack in the Boppy to practice his sitting up and I went to Baketown.

Generally I'm not one to toot my own horn...however, I must say that this cake was damn good.

Incredibly rich and calorie laden like whoa, but amazing none-the-less.

I wouldn't recommend this being on your go-to list as a recipe that you make on a regular basis because you'll be as big as a house, but The Hubs recently got a promotion and that was reason enough for me!

This pin was my inspiration.

I needed to find a great chocolate cake recipe because The Hubs is a chocoholic and this was all about him so to the cookbooks I went.

The original recipe was called "Shhh Don't Tell - Chocolate Fudge Birthday Cake!".

A bit of a mouthful if you ask me.

I'm going with "Heavenly Hip Cake" because it tastes like heaven but I need to remember that it'll be sitting on my hips if I'm not careful. Also, the recipe claims that this serves 8-10...I'd argue it serves at least 12, maybe more.

What You'll Need:

Cake

1 box Devil's Food Cake Mix

1 cup water

3 eggs

1/3 cup corn oil

1/3 cup sour cream

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Icing

1 12 oz bag semisweet chocolate chips

2 cups sugar

2/3 cup milk

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into pieces

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Decorations

12 regular Kit Kat bars

1 bag of milk chocolate M&Ms

Position the rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350 degrees F. Butter 3 nonstick 8-inch cake pans with 1 1/2 inch sides. - I used three 9-inch pans because I only have two 8-inchers and it worked out just fine. Just make sure to check your cakes as they're cooking since they'll be a little more thin in 9-inch pans.

To Make the Cake

Combine the cake mix, water, eggs, oil, sour cream, vanilla, and kosher salt in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Alternatively, use an electric hand mixer. Beat on low speed until the mixture is well blended. Increase the speed to medium if using a stand mixer (high for a hand mixer) and beat for 2 minutes.

Stir in the chocolate chips.

Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake until a knife inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean, about 25 minutes.

Transfer the pans to wire racks and let cool for 10 to 15 minutes.

Remove the cakes from the pans and let cool completely on the racks.

To Make the Icing

Put the chocolate chips in the metal bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Alternatively, use an electric hand mixer.

Combine the sugar, milk, butter, and kosher salt in a medium saucepan over high heat and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.

Let boil vigorously for exactly 1 minute.

Pour the hot sugar mixture over the chocolate.

Add the vanilla.

Beat on medium speed until the mixture begins to thicken to a spreadable consistency, 10 to 15 minutes.

Assembly

To assemble, place 1 cake, flat-side up, on a platter.

Spread one third of the icing (about 3/4 cup) over the top of the cake.

Top with the second cake, flat-side up, and spread one third of the icing (about 3/4 cup) over the top.

Top with the third cake, flat-side up, and spread a thin layer of the remaining icing over the top and sides of the cake.

Note: If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate the cake for about 15 minutes after frosting the second layer. This will prevent the cake from sliding. - I didn't do this and I wish I would have because mine slid somewhat.

Decor

Once your cake is assembled, begin unwrapping all of the Kit Kat bars and breaking into sections of two.

Stick the candy bars to the side of the cake all the way around.

Pour the bag of M&Ms on top.

Tie a ribbon around the cake. - This is a cute detail & helps the cake set (pretty & practical)!

I'm telling you, this cake is de-freaking-licious.

Do not make it unless you have people to share it with.

You've been warned.

Open Your Ears

2013-04-17T06:00:00.000-04:00

What's better than baby feet?!

I started to write this post weeks ago and then it sat in the queue of unwritten posts on my Blogger Dashboard waiting for me to come back to it.

But you know what?

I've been listening.

Listening to what?

Listening to Jack as he babbles at himself in the mirror.

Listening to The Hubs talk to Papa about their plans for the new deck.

Listening to the sound of my baby boy's breath as it slows and he enters dreamland.

I've been turning off the TV, putting down my phone, and enjoying the world around me.

A lot has happened since I saved this post's original title ("Stop, Look, & Listen") as a draft and I've learned from all of it.

I've been filled with anxiety as I planned a trip across the country with a 5 month old.

Spent a few days in Arizona with our west coast family. (yes, I realize AZ isn't on the coast - just go with it)

The Hubs got a promotion. (More on the celebratory cake I made him coming soon.)

We started feeding Jackson solids because he was a grumpy, grumpy boy.

My brother left for a deployment in Kuwait.

And Jackson had a great play date!

When we became a family of three it really became apparent to me that life flies by.

DVR is a wonderful thing. My voicemail will hold my messages until I'm ready for them. And my inbox can handle having unread messages in it.

What won't wait?

Jack sitting up for the first time, mimicking me blowing bubbles, and snuggles on the couch with The Hubs while we watch The Masters.

Am I the only one who sometimes forgets to stop and listen?

The Yearbook Years - College Life

2013-04-16T06:00:00.000-04:00

While this isn't quite a yearbook photo - it is me looking my finest for all the world to see. This picture was taken during my freshman year of college when my friends and I went on a random roadtrip and I put on everything that I found in the backseat of the car.

Aren't road trips perfect for just this reason?

You have the best excuse to act silly...pure boredom!

Anyway, I'm linking up with Holly and a few other lovely ladies as they share their yearbook photos from years gone by. I wish I would have been able to find one of my own but this has to do because those pictures are still lost in the totes that hold our moving remnants.

The Past 5 Months

2013-04-15T06:00:00.000-04:00

It's Monday - what could be better than a bunch of baby photos? I'd thought I'd give you a look at how much this little man has grown over the past 5 1/2 months.

Happy Monday!

The Newly Wed Game

2013-04-12T06:00:00.000-04:00

Apparently me and The Hubs need to take more pictures together...but since I have none, I'll give you a picture of the babe!

This week was a pretty good one if I do say so myself.

We had a bit of a scare with Jack when he started vomiting Exorcist style in the middle of the night but things are back on track now!

What does it say about us that I sent these questions to Jon on Monday and he answered them the same day and I'm just now getting to it and it's Friday morning at 12:13 am?!

He's the responsible one...that's what it says.

Here we go!

What bill would you love to hide from your spouse if you could?

Me: I don't have any bills that I'd love to hide but if I was able to hide a bill I'd probably go charge up my Loft card and then hide the statements until the balance was zero.

The Hubs: All our Dolla Bills!!! lol

If your spouse went out on a business trip, the very first thing you would do is...

Me: Read until I fell asleep.

The Hubs: Make sure I had a good cigar to enjoy.

What traffic sign best describes your spouse after a bad day? (caution, yield, danger ahead...get creative here!!)

Me: He'd be one of those signs that tells you there's a bump in the road ahead. I pick this one because he's a pretty even keeled fellow and when he has a rough day he generally just takes a few minutes to get things back up to speed again.

The Hubs: Road ices before bridge

What did your spouse's friends say to watch out for before you started dating your spouse??

Me: Hmmm... I think I'd probably driven the person that introduced us to think that I was a little bit crazy so he may have warned him about that...not really sure.

The Hubs: That she thinks too much... understatement...

What is your spouses dream car...what color?

Me: I'm not sure that this is his dream car but I know he'd love to have a Raptor...I do not condone this and I think they're ugly but whatev.

The Hubs: I'd say it'd be a Mercedes SUV, and the color would be black or silver

What specific sport or game would your spouse say that they are better at than you... and why do you think so?

Me: All of them. I'm a sports girl - and by that I mean I LOVE to watch sports of all kinds. However, I'm not the greatest when it comes to playing them...

The Hubs: Swimming, she used to swim competitively and I only know how to survive in water, can't do a side-stroke properly to save my life

What is the funniest thing that your spouse helps you do? (helping you tie your shoes, prepare your toothbrush... something odd!)

Me: I can't think of anything funny that he does for me on a regular basis but I can say that he helped me yesterday morning when I was yelling from downstairs while he was still in bed... See Jack was on my lap when I discovered that his diaper had leaked and I had a lovely honey mustard colored blog of baby poop on my leg. I just held Jack and yelped for The Hubs to come help me because I couldn't stand up without risking it falling off of my leg and onto the carpet.

The Hubs: I can't think of anything odd that she helps with...

What do you think your spouse would say if they were asked what they like LEAST about being married?

Me: He'd probably say inheriting my student loans...we'd be swimming in golden coins Scrooge McDuck style if we didn't have those bills every month!

The Hubs: Having to make decisions together as a couple instead of on her own?!?! (Shot in the dark...)

Who do you get along with best in your spouses' family and why?

Me: Caitlin

The Hubs: Her father because we work on projects together and have a lot of similar interests

Finish the sentence. Sometimes, I get annoyed at my spouse because he/she always (blanks) when he/she (blanks).

Me: Always I get annoyed when he takes my dish from the living room and then sets it on the counter in the kitchen without cleaning it off or putting it in the dishwasher.

The Hubs: Thinks too much about how she looks when she obviously looks so beautiful

Proud Mamas and A Play Date

2013-04-11T07:39:00.000-04:00

That is a perfect snapshot of our little men.

Landon a blur of movement and excitement and Jackson just taking it all in.

About a year before the babe was born my best friend had her first baby and he's now a growing, playing, walking, stair climbing toddler. Jack obviously isn't there yet, so that can make play dates for us a little difficult at times.

Not last night.

Despite the one year age difference, our boys seemed to communicate on their own level and both of them had so much fun.

Jackson hung out in the Johnny Jump Up for the first time (thanks again for letting us borrow it, guys!) and he probably could have hung out there all night long if mom would have just left him alone.

Landon did an amazing job too! Our house isn't exactly baby proofed yet so his mama is always very busy when they're here.

Last night, armed with a box of big boy toys he and his mama were able to spend the evening with me and my man.

Now let me tell you, this busy boy plays hard but when it came to Jackson he was so gentle and calm.

I hope that they're bound to be the best of friends just like their mommies are.

It's nights like this that remind me of how blessed we are.

We have great friends, an incredibly supportive family and a beautiful home - what more could we ask for?

Thanks Kim K!

2013-04-10T06:00:00.000-04:00

This was taken the weekend of my shower.

I've tried to write about how pregnancy wasn't my favorite time of life before and it just came out as a big rambling mess. But I'm going to give it a go one more time here, only because I appreciate Kim Kardashian's disdain for her current state.

First things first, I must say that a few years ago I was definitely Team Kardashian and I thought they were pretty cool cats. These days, I'm pretty meh about them and don't really care one way or the other.

OK now that that's cleared up - onto the topic of the day. I have heard Kim K saying things in the press about how pregnancy isn't as blissful as she'd expected. She even made a statement that she hated the phase that you just look fat instead of preggers.

Well duh!

We all do sister. Me especially. So I'm applauding Kim for keeping it real when it comes to her feelings about carrying around her bump.

My beef with her is that EVERYONE from here to Pluto knows that she's pregnant. She doesn't need to be concerned with people thinking that she's maybe just let herself go...that's for women like me to worry about in the early stages of pregnancy.

And my parting words to Kim (because she obviously frequents Little Spindle):

Thank you for sincerely hating pregnancy as much as I did!

It's totally worth it when you meet your baby for the first time but up until that point it's kind of for the birds.

Is there anyone out there that shares my sentiments toward being pregnant? Please tell me that I'm not alone.

I Need to Brush My Teeth!

2013-04-09T06:00:00.000-04:00

This picture was taken the night before we left for AZ when The Hubs was already gone and Jack was missing him.

As I'm writing this, it's 8:16pm on Monday evening and I'm sitting in my dark living room, my sleeve is damp from spit up down my arm, Jack is fighting a nap and I haven't brushed my teeth today.

You read that correctly - it's almost time for bed and I haven't put toothpaste on the brush and took it to my teeth yet.

Go ahead and barf.

I'll wait.

I work from a home office and spend the majority of my days staring at my computer screen or on the phone, so it's incredibly easy for me to let this happen.

I go weeks at a time where I make it a priority to get dressed everyday even if I don't leave the house.

And then days like today happen and I'm disgusting with a capital D!

Am I the only one who sometimes needs a reminder to do normal daily things like this?!

Would anyone care to check in with me daily to be my "Teeth Police"? I'll make you a badge if that'll entice you...

If nothing else, I hope this makes you realize that you're not the biggest slob in the world because I'm currently wearing that crown (with my maroon velour pants that are 5 inches too long and my over sized cotton T-shirt to match).

Five Months & Flying

2013-04-08T07:59:00.001-04:00

A little over a week ago Jack and I embarked on an adventure.

We flew from Canton/Akron airport to Phoenix, AZ.

Before I go on, I must say that my baby boy did absolutely amazing.

In the week leading up to our trip I was definitely anxious about what flying with an infant would look like but I think that was worse than the actual trip itself.

The Hubs had flown out the day before Jack and I because we had booked our tickets separately, so it was just the babe and mama.

Our first flight was about 30 minutes in the air (CAK-Detroit) which obviously wasn't bad at all...except for that moment when I bumped his head on the airplane window (woops).

Next came a three hour layover in Detroit where we did some eating, wandering and napping. Again, I couldn't have asked for a better baby man.

Our last flight was the big one. 4 hours. Detroit to Phoenix. Originally we were slated to sit in a middle seat...ya that would have been enjoyable for everyone involved (me, Jack, and the people on either side of us)! So I went up to the counter as soon as the attendants got there and asked if I could make a change and the initial response that I got was "probably not".

Awesome, thanks for your help!

I looked at them and said, "OK, well I'm traveling with an infant and we're in for a miserable flight then."

To which the attendant replied, "Oh, you're in 19B? Let me see what I can do? I have a window seat in the second to last row. Does that work?"

Me - "Yes, smart@ss - thank you for your help"...just kidding, I didn't say that. I said "Of course" and was handed our new boarding pass.

The rest of the trip was pretty uneventful other than my legs falling asleep because Jack slept for 80% of the flight (NOT COMPLAINING. AT. ALL) equaling a 13 pound weight on my lap for four hours because I obviously wasn't going to pee...where would I leave my child?!?!?

The most shocking things during our travels were the fact that I never once had to prove that Jack was my child. I could have just taken him from his loving home and decided we were heading to Arizona and that would have been cool with the airline, TSA, everyone involved...if you ask me - that's TERRIFYING. I can't take more than 3 ounces of shampoo, but a baby? Ya that's cool...yikes!

Also, I know none of them will read this but I have to send a shout out to my fellow passengers who were so helpful when boarding and exiting the plane.

No one from Delta ever offered to help with my stroller upon seeing me holding my child and diaper bag and trying to collapse the thing with one hand while trying to board. It was the people flying with me that offered to help me each time and I'm very grateful.

So that was our adventure. Jack turned five months old and took his first plane ride all in the same day.

What a great guy I have!

The Newly Wed Game

2013-03-30T06:00:00.000-04:00

Look at those love birds!

That's us the weekend that we got engaged.

We had so much fun being a part of this last week that we're back for more.

Where was the proposal? How did it all go down?

Me: It all went down in a hotel room in Marietta, OH. Michelle Tanner was there with us and I wouldn't change it for anything!

The Hubs: A hotel room in WV just across the river from Marietta, OH. We were watching Full House when I started to tell her all the things I loved about her and I got the ring from my suitcase and proposed.

Name one thing that makes you similar to your spouse and one thing that makes you totally opposite from your spouse.

Me: We're similar in that we're both pretty sarcastic and have a sick sense of humor. When it comes to being opposites, I'd say that I'm a glass half full type of gal and he's a bah humbug, pessimistic fellow. He's really not a pessimist but it's fun to call him a curmudgeon anyway!

The Hubs: We are both extremely competitive, she seems to be a very optimistic person and she'd call me very negative.

When was your very first date? What did you do?

Me: I'm assuming this means my very first date with The Hubs?! Well technically our first date included visiting my bestie while she worked at Fashion Bug, lunch with my mama at our favorite mexican restaurant, and then introducing him to Gram. You know, just your typical first date...

He'll probably say that it was at Red Robin though.

The Hubs: Our first date officially was El Campesino's with her mother for lunch...our first date alone was to Red Robin and we just watched TV together at her house. Really exciting, I know!

How many boy or girlfriends did your spouse have before you?

Me: Ummmm, maybe 2. I know that his family was shocked when he actually brought me home to meet them because they said he never brought home ladies.

The Hubs: 2 that she would consider serious (at the time)

Complete the sentence: My spouse is a natural born _________.

Me: Daddy. This man has taken to being a dad like he's been doing it for years! I'm in aww of how confident and comfortable he is with our little man.

The Hubs: Eave's Dropper!

Our marriage would be absolutely perfect if we could just agree on ________.

Me: the fact that I'm always right.

The Hubs: The amount of gravy we should stock in our house

Which of these does your spouse have more of, in your opinion? Sensor of Humor, Sense of Time, Sense of Adventure, Common Sense.

Me: Sense of Time - he's always waiting around for me because I'm lacking in that department and he hates being late. It's a military thing, I suppose.

The Hubs: Sense of Humor

Where is the oddest location you have ever shared a kiss with your spouse?

Me: His brother's bed...sorry Arrick.

The Hubs: ...idk, the church the day we got married with everyone watching... (shoulders shrugging)

Complete this sentence: I knew I had found the love of my life when my spouse __________.

Me: finally got me to admit that we were dating. Once I realized that this was for real there was absolutely no turning back.

The Hubs: Kept pushing me away, but all the amazing qualities she has kept me actively pursuing her instead of looking for the next girl.

Explain the outfit that you love most on your spouse.

Me: Lately I've been loving a long sleeve grey button up shirt and jeans. But I've got to say that my man is just a handsome guy in general. I love him in suits, I love him when he hasn't brushed his teeth, he's just always hot to me. Just saying.

The Hubs: Sweatpants, a hoody, and a ponytail

Book Club Friday - "The MacGregor Brides"

2013-03-29T06:00:00.000-04:00

I can't pass up a good love story and Nora Roberts never disappoints. I don't read her very often but when I do, I prefer Dos Equis...oh wait. What? Anyway, lets just get into the meat of the story.

Back of the Book:

At age ninety, there is nothing the powerful patriarch of the MacGregor clan would like more than to see his three eldest granddaughters happily married. So Daniel MacGregor has handpicked three unsuspecting candidates he believes would make perfect husbands. But this might be his biggest matchmaking challenge yet; his granddaughters are so focused on their careers that marriage is the last thing on their minds. It's a good thing Daniel has a few tricks left up his sleeve....

My Thoughts:

Like I said above, I love sappy love stories. This book is broken into three novellas, all surrounding a meddling grandfather and his lovely granddaughters. All three women are very successful in their professional lives and seem fairly happy personally as well and then their uber-rich grandpa steps in and decides that it's time for marriage.

Not only does he decide that it's time for commitment, but he chooses the man that he thinks is their Prince Charming and then manipulates the situation to make sure the happy couple stumbles upon each other.

Because this is a book, I love how well it all works out for each couple. However, if it were my actual life I would be upset that anyone were meddling so much. More specifically, I'd be pissed if they pretended like they knew nothing of it because I'm just not a fan of lying.

Anyway, if you're looking for a fun, quick read this is a great one. Just go in knowing that it's predictable. Each of the three novellas has a great little story line, but nothing very challenging.

Friday's Letters (On Saturday)

2013-03-23T11:20:00.004-04:00

Dear Jack: It was a rough week for us but I think things are starting to get better. I've described you to some as "demonic" in the last few days but mama still loves you more than anything. Daddy and I are so spoiled because you've been so good to us and we were thrown for a giant loop when things went south for a bit. Dear Bloggy Friends: Thank you for all of your sweet comments this week! Dear Week: You were the longest week of my life! My goodness, you just wouldn't end. This morning I woke up and The Hubs was not in bed next to me. Confused, I thought for a minute - realized it was Saturday and I didn't have to get up and literally shouted "YES!!!" before falling back to sleep. It was A.Mazing! Dear Hubs: I'm sorry I was a wee bit crazy this week. You were saintly in putting up with my mood swings. Thanks for that!

The Newly Wed Game

2013-03-22T07:00:00.000-04:00

I thought we should BOTH have silly mustaches.

I thought this linkup sounded like a lot of fun and a great way to get The Hubs involved here at Little Spindle. We'll give it a go for a few weeks and hope that we stick to it!

I know that we're not quite newly weds anymore but hey, we're still lovebirds so why not? Let's play!

Which does your spouse prefer? Summer or Winter Olympics?

Me: He definitely prefers the winter games.

The Hubs: Summer Olympics, she loves watching swimming.

What advice would you give your 16 year old self, now with the knowledge that you have found and married "the one"?

Me: It's all worth it. You're going to go through a ton of dumb shiznit along the way and most of those silly boys can be tossed to the side. But whatever you do, make sure you stay in contact with Curtis because he will introduce you to the man of your dreams!

The Hubs: Just be your dorky self. It'll work out.

What expectations did you have going into marriage? How have they changed?

Me: As disgusting and mushy as it sounds, this whole thing has far exceeded my expectations. Something different from past relationships is my ability and desire to tell him everything and to talk out tough situations. I didn't know it would be this easy to be so open.

The Hubs: My expectations were to just have happiness in marriage and my expectations haven't changed. And I think we're doing a pretty great job so far.

When engaged, what did your spouse most look forward to about being married?

Me: I don't think I can share that with the world, sorry!

The Hubs: Not living with her parents.

What is your spouse's favorite meal that you prepare?

Me: I make darn good chocolate chip cookies but that's not really a meal. I'd say maybe my lasagna?

The Hubs: Baked Mostaccioli

What is your spouse's favorite form of exercise?

Me: Running

The Hubs: The treadmill (I really have no clue because she doesn't ever want me to go to the gym with her).*

*hilarious answer in my opinion because I NEVER touch the treadmill - I'm terrified of falling off and face planting Biggest Loser style

What sport would your spouse most prefer to actually participate in?

Me: Football or golf

The Hubs: Swimming

What is the strangest food your spouse has ever eaten?

Me: I'm not sure if he ever ate anything crazy during his Navy travels, but I think he'd say the strangest thing I ever made him eat was french fries with butter on them from Heggy's (which seems totally legit to me).

The Hubs: I'm assuming something from Thailand because they don't make anything normal there.

Is your spouse a country gal/boy or a city slicker?

Me: I'd say deep down he's a country boy even though he didn't grow up there.

The Hubs: City slicker, easy.

Who is the "handyman" in your home? You or your spouse?

Me: Him, fo sho! I'm more of the walk by it and hope that it magically fixes itself type...

The Hubs: Me.

Reality

2013-03-21T06:00:00.000-04:00

Nothing to post today. This sweet boy hasn't stopped screaming long enough for me to take a breath, let alone take a few minutes to share a few ditties here.

As soon as we get this household under control again, I'll be back with bells on.

Unpretty

2013-03-20T07:00:00.000-04:00

Sometimes life is unpretty.

Sometimes I just want to scream.

Sometimes I feel like a horrible person because I can't calm Jack down and I feel like I just don't have the energy to do it.

And then The Hubs senses my frustrations and takes our man from me for a few minutes and snuggles him up. It's so hard for me to realize that it's ok in these moments to just take a few seconds - or even an hour - and just breathe.

I've written a lot here about how great being a mama is. And I've meant every word. But in reality, there are also moments when I need a break. Just a few minutes with nothing in my arms, no one screaming in my ear. No pump attached to me. Just a quilt, my kitten and maybe a glass of wine.

It's important for us mamas (and daddys too) to take a few minutes to wind down every once in awhile. And at least for me, I can't do that until I get over the guilt that comes along with it.

Anyone else feel this way?

Is it just me?

Am I really that awful?

Friday's Letters (On Saturday) - Family & Friends Edition

2013-03-16T11:28:00.001-04:00

circa Christmas 2011

Dear Family & Friends: This week my only letter is to you. I've written before about how lucky we are to have each and every one of you in our lives, but this week my goal is to make sure that I'm reiterating just how much I mean that. Obviously we've always felt the love and support.

I'm kind of a b!tch sometimes though. I don't like talking on the phone. I'm impatient a lot of the time. And I'm pretty blunt (at least with the ones I love).

With that being said, I know that I'm not always the easiest to put up with. And being pregnant, while no one has told me this - I would assume that I was even more difficult than usual.

So thank you for putting up with my mood swings.

Thank you for blessing Jackson with more love than he could have ever asked for.

For always being there with a phone call (when I answer) of support or advice.

Thank you for understanding when advice is a good thing and when to keep it to yourself.

Thank you for understanding when I don't take your advice well...eventually it'll sink in and make sense.

Thank you for embracing us as a part of you.

That means that Jon is a Rodriguez just as much as I'm a Chance.

Really, just thank you.

Happy Saturday!

Book Club Friday - "The Book of Lies"

2013-03-15T07:00:00.000-04:00

I was so sad not to have anything to share for Book Club Friday last week, but I'm back today!

Back of the Book:

In chapter four of the Bible, Cain kills Abel. It is the world's most famous murder. But the Bible is silent about one key detail: the weapon Cain used to kill his brother. That weapon is still lost to history.

In 1932, Mitchell Siegel was killed by two gunshots to the chest. While mourning, his son dreamed of a bulletproof man and created the world's greatest hero: Superman. And like Cain's murder weapon, the gun used in this unsolved murder has never been found.

Today in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Cal Harper comes face-to-face with his own family tragedy: His long-missing father has been shot with a gun that traces back to Mitchell Siegel's 1932 murder. But soon after their surprising reunion, Cal and his father are attacked by a ruthless killer tattooed with the ancient markings of Cain.

So begins the chase for the world's first murder weapon. It is a race that will pull Cal back into his own past even as it propels him forward through the true story of Cain and Abel, an eighty-year-old unsolvable puzzle, and the deadly organization known for the past century as the Leadership.

What does Cain, history's greatest villain, have to do with Superman, the world's greatest hero? And what do two murders, committed thousands of years apart, have in common? This is the mystery at the heart of Brad Meltzer's riveting and utterly intriguing new thriller.

My Thoughts:

I'd compare this to a Dan Brown or Michael Connelly type of plot line. If you're a nerd like me and The Hubs and you watch a lot of The History Channel then you're familiar with Brad Meltzer from the show Decoded. Sidenote: I can't get enough of that show and hope new episodes are in the works. Anyway, I'm not a comic book fan. In fact, I think I've only read one and that was required in high school so don't let the fact that this involves Superman throw you off. If you're looking for a read that will keep you guessing but not require too much thought then this is the one for you!

I will say that I had no idea what was going on for the first third of the book, but I guess with a plot like this that's kind of the point.

Another great thing about it was that I got it from the clearance section at Books-A-Million for $2 or $3. Can't beat that!

Pump It Up

2013-03-12T07:34:00.001-04:00

15 bottles & their accoutrements - YUCK

WARNING: I'm talking breastfeeding today, so if you're not interested turn back now.

I've been thinking about this post for awhile but I wasn't sure what type of image to include with it. When I was washing bottles last week I realized this would be perfect since I obviously wasn't going to post a picture of myself pumping.

Speaking of pumping, that's what I want to talk about.

I know breastfeeding can be a hot button topic and I'm truly not looking to spark any controversy here but I want to talk about what's working for us.

When I was pregnant I was asked a lot if I were going to breastfeed and my response was always "if I can". I realized that it was ideally what I wanted to do but I knew there was a possibility (just like in every part of the birth process) that things wouldn't go the way that I had planned and I was prepared for that. When Jack finally made his appearance we tried to make it work but after a few days, it was apparent that latching just wasn't going to happen.

The whole time that we were trying to get him to latch I was pumping away in order to make sure that he was getting everything that he needed. For the first week we supplemented with formula but once I was able to pump enough milk for him to thrive on that alone, we switched him to strictly having breast milk from a bottle. And that's where we are to this day.

People still ask all the time if I'm breastfeeding him or giving him formula. I asked the doctor what my response should be and she told me that if all he's getting is milk then I am breastfeeding for all intents and purposes. I felt like I was doing something that was unheard of though. It seems that there are two options: breastfeed or bottle feed. But what about doing both?

I am hearing of more and more women doing things this way, but every book that I read makes a distinct separation. I'm wondering, is there any information out there for families taking the path that we're on?

I think that when we have another baby someday I'll do things the same way. Why? Am I just adding an extra step in the whole process? Not really.

From my research breast milk can be in the refrigerator for 4 days so I'm generally at least a full day ahead. This means that Jack is getting all the nutrients, immunities, good stuff that breast milk provides and I'm not chained to his feeding schedule. For someone like me, this is key to my sanity. I've been able to have people watch him for a few hours and not have to worry about hurrying home because it's time to eat.

I've read a lot about how women pump after going back to work and then are still able to squeeze in a feeding session before or after work, but what about women who are strictly pumping? Is there any information out there about this? If you've read something or know of someone who has please let me know. I'd love to be even more informed about other people that are doing the same thing that I am.

Also, if you're expecting and want to learn more about my experience with this or any other topic please shoot me an email or leave a comment here.

Linking up Here & Here.

One Helluva Year

2013-03-11T07:00:00.000-04:00

I spent yesterday reminiscing over the past year.

So much has changed in the last 365 days that it feels like it's been more like 3 years since Lacie and I made our trip from Indiana to the great state of Ohio.

Last year on March 8th we found out that we were going to have a baby and now Jackson is 4 months old...wow, just wow!

We took a trip to Puerto Rico.

The Hubs left the Navy and joined me and Lacie in Ohio.

We were roomies with my parents.

House hunting.

Finally homeowners!

I wrote a love note to my kitchen.

Friends and family came to visit and celebrate our baby shower with us.

Jackson was born.

Nana visited for Thanksgiving.

Friends got married.

Granddaddy Chance and Grandma Jennie came to visit for Christmas.

The Rodrigi were here for Christmas too!

We got through the craziness of the holidays and finally settled into a routine.

Our sweet boy settled into a routine and started sleeping through the night.

Uncle Migs came to visit and met our baby boy.

I realized that I'm not 17 anymore and I need to accept that.

And through it all I've had The Hubs by my side. He keeps me sane and bears with me when I'm far from it. This year will unquestionably bring a million more surprises, struggles, celebrations and smiles and I can't wait!

The Big 3

2013-03-08T09:54:00.000-05:00

This beautiful chickadee is turning 3 today! I can't believe that the teeny tiny peanut that was just a few weeks old when The Hubs and I were married is such a big girl now. Our sweet niece is so full of personality and joy and those eyes, those big, curious eyes.

Great things are ahead for this girl as she continues to explore the world around her and becomes more and more of the person she's meant to be.

I wish we could be there with her to celebrate but instead we'll have to settle for sending our love.

Happy 3rd Birthday!

Love Aunt Dani, Uncle Jon & Baby Jack

I've Lost My Voice

2013-03-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

Alright folks - I've lost my voice and I'm not talking in the laryngitis kind of way.

When I started this little place called Little Spindle I wrote as myself. I didn't know anything about the greater blogging community that was out there and I wasn't trying to fit in. I was just being me.

I would say that now that I'm a few years in and have goals set about growing my little place within the interwebs, I've lost a little bit of that.

My goals are great and I'm totally sticking to them but this needs to happen while still maintaining everything that makes me ME!

I've described myself at slightly quirky and that's really only the half of it. So be ready lovelies, this mama is BACK & BETTER THAN EVER!

In real life:

I curse more than I should,

I kiss my child disgustingly often,

I forget to do a lot of things,

my house is not necessarily clean but it's not gross either

and I have a pretty big mouth.

So ya that's me.

Shot, Shots, Shots, Shots, Shots!

2013-03-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I mentioned that I was not looking forward to Jackson's trip to the doctor. Not only was it a Monday, but it was time for his 4 month wellness check and along with that comes shots (hence the title of today's post).

Jack obviously didn't know what he was getting into beforehand but this mama was totally aware and was dreading the appointment.

The Hubs had to work and I made the mistake of scheduling the appointment in the afternoon so it was just me and my baby man. First, I must say that Jack did an absolutely amazing job. It was the first day that he sat in a stroller without also being in his car seat - I can't believe he's big enough for that already!

"I love the waiting room" said no one ever...

We didn't spend a whole lot of time in the waiting room, but once we got back into the room we were there for-freaking-ever!

I have to throw in that we don't take our boy to a pediatrician but instead to the same family practitioner that my family has gone to for the majority of my life. (After typing this I can't remember why I thought this info was necessary but eh, it's already there, I'll leave it here anyway).

It was approximately 7,000 degrees in our little room and I was very warm and whiny but the babe was so well behaved.

But then the shots happened and my smiling man turned into a blubbering boy and it broke this mama's heart.

No clue why it looks like he's chewing gum...

Mama finally got him calmed down and we headed home, Jack in his big boy stroller and mama sweating more than she did later on that night at the gym.

I know this has turned into a super long post, but for those that are still with me let me just say that today taught me a lesson. Even though this little guy had a very rough day (a bath & shots all in one day?!) he still finished it off with a smile for mama.

His smile made me realize that even when Mondays suck and I have to hold my baby's arms down while he gets poked in the hips, there are so many things that are worth smiling about!

Monday Morning

2013-03-04T10:03:00.000-05:00

His face.

This face expresses exactly how I'm feeling this Monday morning.

While he's probably thinking "not another picture, mama", I'm thinking that I'm tired and the weekend just wasn't long enough. I also have the dread of a 4 month check-up appointment coming up this afternoon, which doesn't help this Monday morning.

This mama is feeling slightly whiny and a little extra sleepy this morning. Any tips for putting the pep back into my step today?

Friday's Letters (On Sunday)

2013-03-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

Dear Jackson: I'm posting this picture because I want your Abuelo to remember that you're not always screaming at him when he has you. You've been pretty rough on him and Grandma Che this week and they love you very much. Dear Date Night: We need to have more of you! The Hubs and I went to dinner and then to Ollie's (a local discount store), which doesn't sound like an evening made in heaven but it was perfect spending time with The Hubs just the two of us. Dear Fiber One bars and all of your counterparts: I have to cut all ties with you. We have not been getting along... Dear New Bloggy Friends: Thank you for stopping by! It's been great to see this little space start to grow lately. Dear Brad Meltzer: You're a new author for me and I'm giving you a shot but I have no idea what's happening so far. I love Decoded on The History Channel, so I should like it but we'll see...

Happy Sunday friends!